TTC Light Cloud V2 vs. HMX Silent Sakura - 43g
An in-depth look at the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two intriguing options to consider are the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g, both of which are linear switches. The Light Cloud V2 is celebrated for its exceptionally refined typing feel, characterized as 'mild,' 'muted,' and 'feathery,' making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a gentle and nuanced typing experience. Its lightweight design aids in reducing finger fatigue, appealing particularly to those who spend long hours typing. On the other hand, the Silent Sakura - 43g is engineered to provide a whisper-quiet operation, reminiscent of raindrops, making it perfect for users who seek a serene and distraction-free environment. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of just 43g, these switches cater well to light typists looking for a smooth keystroke without the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. While both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different typing styles, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switches present some intriguing similarities and differences that significantly influence their auditory and tactile characteristics. Both switches feature a nylon top housing, which is known to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality suggests that users can expect a similar acoustic experience during the act of typing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound waves more effectively than harder materials, resulting in a muted and rounder auditory response irrespective of the switches being pressed. This shared trait creates a harmonious engagement with sounds that enhances the overall typing experience for both switch models.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of these two switches diverge, contributing distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations. The Light Cloud V2 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, mirroring the top housing's characteristics and thereby maintaining a cohesive sound experience across both aspects of the switch. In comparison, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a polycarbonate bottom housing, renowned for generating a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This difference means that while both switches share deep sound qualities from their nylon tops, the overall acoustic output will vary when bottoming out the switches, with the Silent Sakura offering a more clear and resonant sound from its polycarbonate.
Overall, the varied composites of the bottom housing result in different sound experiences during the bottoming out of the keypress. Even with the shared nylon top housing bringing uniformity to the initial press and release sounds, the unique contribution of polycarbonate in the Silent Sakura introduces a more pronounced and detailed auditory impact when keys are released and struck. Thus, while typing experiences may initiate similarly, the tactile and auditory climax at the bottoming out moment will showcase how the housing materials distinctly shape each switch's character. Users can expect a blend of deep tones from the nylon top, but a clear differentiation arises during the key's bottom-out phase due to the bottom housing material choice.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch, notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Light Cloud V2 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g features a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Consequently, while both switches provide a linear experience, the HMX Silent Sakura allows for quicker responses with less effort, appealing to users who favor a less strenuous typing experience. In this comparison, the HMX Silent Sakura is the lighter option, whereas the TTC Light Cloud V2 is the heavier switch, catering to users who appreciate a firmer push feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressed, the Silent Sakura switch provides a bit more depth in the keystroke, which some users may find satisfying as it offers a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2's shorter travel distance can enhance responsiveness, making it a preferable choice for gamers seeking quick reaction times. Consequently, users looking for a more abrupt and snappy key feel might favor the Light Cloud V2, while those who appreciate a deeper, more traditional keystroke might lean towards the Silent Sakura switch. In summary, the Light Cloud V2 is the shorter option at 3.5 mm, whereas the Silent Sakura is the longer option at 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the TTC Light Cloud V2 offers a muted sound profile that is notably softer and quieter compared to traditional mechanical switches, making it an ideal option for those looking to minimize noise in shared spaces. This switch strikes a balance with its neutral descriptor, maintaining a moderate sound level that caters well to users ranging from beginners to advanced typists. In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 43g promises a whisper-quiet typing experience, elegantly evoking the imagery of gentle raindrops. Both switches deliver a more subdued auditory experience compared to their louder counterparts, ensuring that they are both suitable for a tranquil typing environment; however, the specifics of the Silent Sakura's sound profile are not explicitly detailed.
In terms of feel, the Light Cloud V2 is characterized by a mildly pleasant typing experience that is gentle on the fingers, making it approachable for various users. Its easy-to-press mechanism and feathery quality ensure that each keystroke requires minimal effort, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. This is particularly beneficial for extended typing sessions where comfort is paramount. Unfortunately, the feel characteristics of the Silent Sakura - 43g remain unspecified, leaving a gap in direct comparison. However, given its ultra-light 43g actuation force, one could reasonably infer that it may deliver a similarly light and comfortable typing experience, catering to those who prefer lighter switches.
In summary, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches provide a more muted sound profile, ideal for users who appreciate a quieter environment, making them suitable for a variety of settings. While the Light Cloud V2 presents well-defined feel qualities that enhance typing comfort, the Silent Sakura's feel remains less documented. Assuming they share the lightweight actuation characteristic, both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing experience; however, the Light Cloud V2 currently has more established feedback regarding its overall performance in this regard.
Conclusion
To wrap up, both the TTC Light Cloud V2 and the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switches offer distinct advantages depending on your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a more balanced typing experience with a medium actuation force of 58 grams that still maintains a muted sound profile, the Light Cloud V2 may be the ideal choice. Its refined feel and easy-to-press design cater well to those who enjoy a gentle yet responsive typing experience, making it suitable for general use, whether at work or home. Alternatively, if you're looking for an ultra-light switch with a bottom-out force of just 43 grams that emphasizes a whisper-quiet operation—perfect for shared spaces or late-night use—the HMX Silent Sakura is your best bet. Its gentle, feathery touch allows for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue, appealing greatly to those who prioritize comfort and tranquility in their typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you value a slightly more robust feedback or a lighter, quieter touch, thereby ensuring your keyboard truly complements your typing style.
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